Chinese astrology is a complex system, based on the balance of yin and yang, the five elements of fire, earth, metal, water and wood, and the 12 animals of the zodiac. It follows a lunisolar calendar, which is dictated by the rhythms of the solar system.

From October 8 to November 6 is the Wood Dog Month. This time of year represents a point of equilibrium, where light and dark are in balance. Nature begins to retreat, nourishing the earth in preparation for the new growth that spring will…